Council awards progressive design‑build contract to advance new library at Parkview site

City staff presented an update and requested authorization to award a progressive design‑build contract for a new Palm Desert library at the Parkview Office Complex and to approve an early construction amendment for demolition and site preparation.

Ryan Lamb, senior project manager for capital projects, recapped the project history and delivery approach. He said the city approved conceptual design in February 2025 with a $30,000,000 budget and completed schematic design in August 2025. Staff recommended a progressive design‑build delivery to accelerate the schedule and reduce risks by pairing architects and constructors early in design. Lamb described Phase 1 design development and a planned guaranteed maximum price negotiation later once construction documents reach 100%.

To shorten the schedule, staff asked council to authorize an early construction package amendment limited to abatement, demolition and site preparation of the Parkview site so demolition can occur as documents are finalized rather than waiting for final GMP approval. Lamb said the remaining budget after the award and amendment would be approximately $25.9 million for new construction, construction management, fees, furniture/fixtures/equipment, AV and IT.

Councilmembers asked whether this was the city's first progressive design‑build use; staff confirmed it likely was. Council expressed support for the early construction amendment. A motion to approve the award to the recommended design‑build team and to authorize the early construction package amendment passed 5‑0. Staff estimated substantial completion in 2027 and opening in 2028.

Next steps include finalizing design, negotiating the GMP for council approval and construction management through project completion.